Accra, Ghana — A significant milestone in Ghana’s economic journey has been reached as the nation’s non-traditional export (NTE) earnings surged to a record $3. 28 billion in 2025, marking a robust 53% increase from the previous year. This surge is predominantly fueled by the burgeoning cocoa processing sector, which now commands 65.
48% of the total NTE earnings.
The heart of this transformation lies in the strategic shift from exporting raw cocoa beans to processing and manufacturing within the country. Cocoa paste has emerged as the leading earner, contributing $789. 3 million, a 70.
97% increase year-on-year, reflecting a deepening investment in domestic processing capacity. Secondary cocoa products, including cocoa butter and powder, have seen exponential growth, driven by increasing demand in European and other industrial markets.
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is instrumental in this structural reset, focusing on enhancing yields and adding value to the cocoa beans.
The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) credits the Accelerated Export Development Programme for this impressive performance, underscoring the nation’s commitment to economic diversification and industrialization.
In addition to cocoa, agricultural diversification is bolstering Ghana’s export base, with cashew nuts and shea products recording substantial growth.
The manufacturing and semi — processed goods sector now accounts for over 83% of total export earnings, signifying a definitive move towards industrial output. Despite challenges such as declining iron and steel exports, attributed to global market pressures, Ghana’s export performance remains robust.
The nation’s trade destinations are diverse, with Europe and intra-African trade playing crucial roles in its economic growth.
The GEPA chief executive, Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur, emphasizes the importance of regional market competitiveness and ongoing initiatives to improve production standards and capacity. Ghana’s integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is accelerating, with the 2025 performance highlighting the nation’s growing influence as a manufacturing and processing hub in West Africa. This economic transformation is not only a testament to the country’s strategic approach but also a significant step towards sustainable economic growth and long-term development.
*Additional reporting by ImNews*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Segun Adeyemi
